The meaning of the lyrics of the song "Behold Antichrist!" by the artist "Therion"

This text is the libretto for the opera "Behold Antichrist!" by the Swedish metal band Therion. This scene reveals the culmination of the conflict between Set, who declared himself the new messiah, and his opponents, who see him as the Antichrist.

Set, intoxicated with power and enraged by the resistance of the people, tries to assert his divinity. He addresses the crowd, demanding recognition and submission. However, his words have the opposite effect: shock turns into open disobedience. Joanna and her supporters, as well as Pope Pius II, expose Set as a false prophet, calling him the Antichrist.

At this moment, Apollonius intervenes, invoking divine punishment. Lightning strikes the temple, killing Joanna and the Pope. Set uses the tragedy to strengthen his position, declaring it God's judgment on his enemies. He leaves the stage victorious, leaving behind horror and confusion.

The lyrics convey the confrontation between faith and deception, good and evil. Set embodies a false idol, using manipulation and fear to achieve his goals. His opponents, despite their deaths, remain true to their beliefs, exposing his true nature.